Exodus 5:1-14
Egypt presents us with a convincing illustration of what the world is, in other words, human society organised without God. But, by the very act of refusing the authority of God, the world nevertheless gives itself a master: Satan, called the Prince of this world (John 16:11). He is a hard and remorseless master, of whom the cruel Pharaoh presents a striking image. And when a soul begins to be awakened in his conscience and sighs for deliverance (as Israel in this chapter), Satan makes every effort to hold him back and to tighten his grip by an additional work load (see v. 9). He distracts that person with a whirlwind of activity to drive away his inward thoughts and to prevent him finding time to occupy himself with the needs of his soul.
Yes, we too have known only too well what it is to groan under Satan’s yoke, "servants of sin" (Romans 6:17), "serving divers lusts and pleasures" (Titus 3:3), incapable of freeing ourselves by our own efforts. Is it possible that one of our readers finds himself in this horrible condition? The Word of God presents to him a deliverance already accomplished. Greater than Moses, Christ has not only preached it, but He Himself accomplished this redemption. He has snatched our souls from the frightful slavery of the Devil and sin.